📍 Location & Geography
Millinocket is a town located in Penobscot County, in the state of Maine, United States. It is nestled in the heart of Maine’s vast forested region and is surrounded by lakes, rivers, and mountains. The town lies to the south of Baxter State Park and Mount Katahdin, the highest peak in Maine. The Penobscot River, one of the largest rivers in New England, flows to the west of the town.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Millinocket, Maine, are approximately 45.66 degrees North latitude and 68.71 degrees West longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Millinocket is situated in the northeastern part of the United States, in the New England region. The town covers a total area of 16.05 square miles, of which 15.63 square miles is land and 0.42 square miles is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Millinocket had a population of approximately 4,400 residents. The town has a predominantly white population, with a small percentage of residents identifying as Hispanic, African American, Native American, Asian, or from other racial or ethnic groups. The median age of residents is around 49 years, which is notably higher than the national median.
🏛️ History
Millinocket was incorporated as a town in 1901. The town’s growth and development were primarily driven by the paper industry, with the Great Northern Paper Company establishing a large mill in the area. For many years, Millinocket thrived as a bustling mill town. However, the decline of the paper industry in the late 20th century led to economic challenges. Today, the town is reinventing itself as an outdoor recreation destination, capitalizing on its proximity to natural attractions like Baxter State Park and the Appalachian Trail.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Millinocket is known for its stunning natural beauty. The town is a gateway to Baxter State Park, a large wilderness area home to Mount Katahdin, Maine’s highest peak. The park offers opportunities for hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities. Millinocket is also close to the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, a protected area featuring forests, rivers, and diverse wildlife. The town’s environmental efforts focus on preserving these natural resources and promoting sustainable tourism.
🏫 Education
Education in Millinocket is managed by the Millinocket School Department. The town has two public schools: Granite Street School, serving students from pre-kindergarten to grade 4, and Stearns Junior/Senior High School, serving students from grades 5 to 12. Higher education opportunities are available in nearby cities, including the University of Maine located in Orono.
🚧 Transportation
Millinocket is served by a network of local and state roads, including State Route 11 and State Route 157. The town is also accessible by air through the Millinocket Municipal Airport, which offers general aviation services. While there is no public transportation system within the town, several taxi services operate in the area.
📜 Trivia & Events
Millinocket hosts several events throughout the year, including the Millinocket Marathon and Half, which attracts runners from around the world. The event was started to boost the local economy and has gained recognition for its unique “no entry fee” policy. The town is also the starting point for the “100-Mile Wilderness” section of the Appalachian Trail, one of the most challenging and remote parts of the trail.